FAA really has to step up on mental health. FAA really has to step up on mental health. Even seeing a counselor is seen as undoable let alone a psychologist.
The FAA needs to change the rule and be 100% clear on a statement that seeing a counselor for any reason can cannot be used as actionable against you in any way. There has to be a first step taken towards mental health and seeing that first level of mental health that counselors provide is so critical.
We can have a rational discussion on what happens if additional steps need to be taken by someone going to a psychotherapist or psychologist. But there NEEDS to be a path forward that is not punitive and has real career options for those who need a medical.
There has to be a way to take a break (if/as needed), get the help, and come back with out undue career damage.
@WiredForFlight Agreed.
I'm gearing up to get in the cockpit again soon after months away due to cataract surgery.
Anyone who acknowledges a failing medical condition, physical or mental, and does the work to get it addressed responsibly should have just as easy a path back to the cockpit as I did.
@LouisIngenthron 100% agree. Sadly right now now Mental health issues are treated as a flying death sentence vs a health issue that can be treated and a return to flying path as you said.
@WiredForFlight True, but as I understand it, many other conditions (i.e. diabetes) used to kill careers too, but that's since been fixed.
Here's hoping we can see similar reform in mental health regulations.
@LouisIngenthron I really hope we can get to that point too. I am so happy many other conditions (i.e. diabetes, heart issues, etc.) have been addressed. I really hope we can move in that direction for mental health.